By Fernando Berrocal

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Starting a small business is a thrilling pursuit, but it can cost money that you might not have. There are varied expenses: payroll, office space, and other costs that add up. So, if you're launching a startup, the required capital is essential. 

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There are multiple methods to get the sum you require, but applying for a business loan is one of the simplest and most popular ways. That’s why you'll want to learn everything there is to know about startup loan criteria; it’s a good way to receive the money needed, when approached correctly.  When it comes to startup loans, crucial areas of understanding include interest rates, loan terms, and eligibility standards.

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Financing a startup can be more challenging than funding an existing business. Based on prior performance and financial stability, lenders determine the risk of borrowing. When evaluating an application, financial institutions must take into account business plans, revenue forecasts, and other theoretical data. Startups must develop an effective and sustainable plan that demonstrates their capacity to repay the debt. An owner’s chances of approval increase when they wait until they have generated income before applying. 

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When it comes to credit, it tends to be more challenging for individuals with poor credit to obtain a loan (when compared to outcomes for someone with good credit). Create a thorough organizational plan that details your financial objectives.  Addressing and explaining your marketing approach will also strengthen your loan applications. There are financial institutions that focus on lending to customers with bad credit.  However, these loans may have higher origin costs and interest rates.

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5 Steps to Obtain Your Loan

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1. Determine the kind of business loan required. Credit Institutions and conventional banks are popular financing options for startup owners. The maximums range from $250,000 to $500,000. Keep in mind that startup entrepreneurs might not be qualified for the bigger loans–or lowest interest rates.  Regardless, a variety of financing options will be available to assist in launching your business. These are a few of the startup loan categories that are most prevalent.

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• Business credit. With a line of credit, a lender can provide funding for a certain amount, and the business owner can rely on this as needed. Only the portion used monthly is subject to interest. Moreover, after making payments during the draw term, the lender has several entry points to the cash.
• Online (term) loans. Traditional and internet lenders both can grant term loans. In these, a bank lends a one-time quantity of money, which is later returned over a set time at a set interest rate. "Annual Percentage Rates" (APRs), which vary from a minimum of 9%, are found on the best small-business loans.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) Loans and Microloans. For qualified applicants, the U.S. SBA provides SBA 7(a) Loans and SBA Microloans. For the first case, SBA 7(a) loans, offers loans for up to $5,000,000. The interest rate goes from 2.25% to 4.75%, including a base rate. The funding can be utilized for working capital, equipment, and business growth expenses. For microloans, eligible owners can borrow up to $50,000. These loans are available to disadvantaged areas, minorities, and women. The lender may grant a loan with interest rates ranging from 8% to 13%, and payback lengths of up to 6 years.

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2. Check your credit scores. Lenders use a prospective borrower's credit score to evaluate the risk they represent. Before six months up to a year after starting operations, new businesses may not have credit scores. Higher credit ratings are associated with early payment and acceptance chances. Loans, in some cases, need personal guarantees. In this case, if the business is unable to pay, the borrower commits to repay with personal cash. Lenders also take the applicant's or the startup owner's credit score into account. Check your credit score and obtain copies of your business credit reports before applying for a loan to help determine your chances of being approved.

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3. Assemble and prepare required documents.  To get a business loan, lenders will need a variety of documents. Most lenders will ask for certain documentation to confirm an applicant's identification. Lenders frequently want tax returns from the last two decades, as well as recent financial data (bank statements, accounts receivable, and unpaid bills). You can gain clearance if you have a comprehensive business plan. This demonstrates to lenders that the organization is stable enough financially to pay back its loans. In addition to requesting copies of any business licenses or registrations relevant to your sector and details on direct deposit, lenders may also base their choices on future revenue and expenditure projections.

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4. Research and comparison of business lenders. Depending on your individual and professional qualifications, you can be qualified for several lenders. In these circumstances, you have the chance to consider your alternatives and choose the most suitable one for your business. These are some of the factors to compare amongst lenders.

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• Percentages expressed annually. APRs for business loans typically begin at 9%. In contrast, prices may be cheaper for qualified applicants and higher for startups. Visit the website of the lenders to learn more about the APRs offered.
• Fees and additional costs. Lenders frequently demand origination fees. To cover the cost of paperwork and information verification, they might be between 3% to 5% of the loan amount. Others may impose fees for late or early repayment as well as prepayment penalties on borrowers. They may also impose penalties for late payments. Although some businesses remove these to keep their rates competitive, they might raise borrowing prices.
• Lender rating. Even if a lender appears to be excellent, it’s wise to spend time reading reviews to see how well-regarded the firm is with previous borrowers. Ask other individuals in your network about their interactions with the institution. Consider transferring to a different lender if you discover any warning signs.

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5. Submit an application. Once you've decided on a lender, be careful to familiarize yourself with their specific procedure–and make sure you have all the necessary paperwork. The application and underwriting procedures used by lenders vary. See if you can apply online or if you must go to an office to do so. After you complete your application, a lender representative may get in touch with you to ask for more information, such as proof of collateral or specific financial documents.

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Ready to bring your startup to the next level? Apply to MassLight’s next batch. MassLight supplies capital and a dedicated tech team. We take equity in return. Have questions? Refer to our FAQ page.

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